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The 32-year-old batsman is currently out of favour with selectors following a dispute over the alleged content of text messages he sent to the members of the South Africa squad during the recent Test series, with his future still no clearer despite the retirement of captain Andrew Strauss.

The ECB, who have issued 10 full-time and four incremental contracts, did add a caveat by saying "discussions are ongoing and remain private" with Pietersen but, as things stand, he will not be a contracted player in an Ashes Year.

In addition to these players awarded central contracts a further four players have been awarded incremental contracts - Jonny Bairstow, Ravi Bopara, Craig Kieswetter and Graham Onions.

National selector Geoff Miller said: "Congratulations to Graham Onions who is the one addition to the list of players who have been awarded increment contracts and is in recognition of the effort he has put in since his return from injury in 2011 and an indication that we feel he has plenty to offer England in the coming months.

"Contracts are ongoing recognition for those players who have regularly been selected for England and have performed consistently as well as players who we feel could play an important role for England over the next 12 months."